Plans Approved for £15 Million Ken Dodd Happiness Centre in Liverpool

Liverpool City Council has approved plans for a £15 million centre dedicated to the late comedy icon Sir Ken Dodd, set to be located adjacent to the Royal Court Theatre, where he frequently performed. The Sir Ken Dodd Happiness Centre will serve as a permanent archive for his memorabilia, including his joke books, tickling sticks, and Diddymen puppets, while also hosting comedy performances and events. Lady Dodd expressed her delight at the approval, noting that her husband had a significant role in saving the Royal Court Theatre from closure in 1979. She emphasized that the centre will be situated in the city he cherished and where he spent his life. The four-storey facility will feature exhibition spaces showcasing Dodd's extensive collection, including around 1,000 joke books, which he had initially instructed to be burned after his death. However, Lady Dodd chose to preserve them, recognizing their uniqueness and value. In addition to celebrating Sir Ken's legacy, the centre aims to honor other comedians, fulfilling Dodd's long-held dream of establishing a museum dedicated to British comedy. Royal Court chief executive Gillian Miller highlighted Liverpool's suitability for such a project, stating that the centre will embody happiness and wellbeing, reflecting the spirit of the city. The initiative promises to be a significant cultural addition to Liverpool, ensuring that Sir Ken Dodd's contributions to comedy and the arts are remembered and celebrated for generations to come.